INSPIRASUNS

During Advent and Lent I change my routine a little. I tend to look for prayers that are specific to these seasons. I like reading a variety of prayers that help me reflect on the season at hand. They help me slow down and remember why we recognize and celebrate these special times. Life gets so busy and it’s very easy to forget the sacrifices made in so many ways by our Lord.

This morning I was reading a few different Advent prayers. Some specific to this week, others a little more general for the season. I came across this prayer and it really touched me. It’s actually almost a poem of sorts but so meaningful. May it fill your heart as it did mine as we begin this new day.

An Advent Prayer for the Lord to Come
This Advent, Lord, come to the manger of my heart. Fill me with Your presence from the very start. As I prepare for the holidays and gifts to be given, Remind me of the gift You gave when You sent Your Son from Heaven. The first Christmas gift, it was the greatest gift ever. You came as a baby born in a manger. Wrapped like the gifts I find under my tree, Waiting to be opened, to reveal Your love to me. Restore to me the wonder that came with Jesus’ birth, When He left the riches of Heaven and wrapped Himself in rags of earth. Immanuel, God with us, Your presence came that night. And angels announced, “Into your darkness, God brings His Light.” “Do not be afraid,” they said, to shepherds in the field. Speak to my heart today, Lord, and help me to yield. Make me like those shepherd boys, obedient to Your call. Setting distractions and worries aside, to You I surrender them all. Surround me with Your presence, Lord, I long to hear Your voice. Clear my mind of countless concerns and all the holiday noise. Slow me down this Christmas, let me not be in a rush. In the midst of parties and planning, I want to feel Your hush. This Christmas, Jesus, come to the manger of my heart. Invade my soul like Bethlehem, bringing peace to every part. Dwell within and around me, as I unwrap Your presence each day. Keep me close to You, Lord. It’s in Your wonderful Name I pray.

Have a wonderful day my friends! Special thanks to my friend Joey Waves for his sunset picture from Marco Island last night!